New York, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a powerful appeal for immediate and unrestricted humanitarian access to Gaza, warning that the region faces a deepening catastrophe amid escalating violence and civilian suffering.

Speaking at UN Headquarters, Guterres condemned attacks on civilian infrastructure and called for safe, secure corridors to deliver essential aid—food, water, medicine, and fuel—to thousands of displaced families. He urged all parties to uphold international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and allow humanitarian workers to operate without obstruction.

“This is a moment of truth,” Guterres declared, emphasizing that the world must act decisively to prevent further loss of life. He called on donors and regional actors to mobilize emergency funding and diplomatic pressure to stabilize the situation and support long-term recovery.

The UN and its partners report that essential services in Gaza are collapsing, and humanitarian access remains severely restricted. Guterres stressed that compassion and action must prevail over indifference and delay.